[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Gentlemen_Verona.jpg” caption=”The annual Summer Drama Festival presents The Two Gentlemen of Verona on July 21 in Faculty Hollow. “]Just because most of the students are gone for the summer doesn't mean the McMaster University campus is in hibernation. In fact, there is a plethora of new opportunities this summer. McMaster believes in year-long engagement with the community, not just a semester – or eight-month-long endeavor.

During the summer months, McMaster's Alumni Advancement Office will be encouraging people to come out and enjoy some, or all, of our fantastic summer line up. Everyone is welcome – the McMaster community, faculty, staff, students and alumni.

“Gnosticism, Women, and Leadership in the Early Church”

Lecture by Dr. Anders Runesson

What you always wanted to ask about the DaVinci Code, but had no one to ask. Take part in what promises to be an interesting discussion from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Council Chambers, Gilmour Hall room 111, on Wednesday, June 28.

The “Play's the Thing”

Celebrate the grand opening of the annual Summer Drama Festival on Friday, July 21. Beginning the evening with a reception in the Great Hall, University Club (Alumni Memorial Hall) and ending with a performance of “The Two Gentlemen of Verona” in Faculty Hollow the ever-popular student performance series promises to be entertaining and engaging. (A festival pass for acceses to all plays is available.)

“King of the Q” – Chef Ted Reader

Reader will present his gourmet expertise on Thursday, July 27 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Art Gallery of Hamilton. Find out all you need to know about the art of grilling, glazing, and dipping. Reader will take participants through the “essence of barbeque”. Once the demonstration is finished, all guests are welcome to sample some of his favorite BBQ treats, and to enjoy a fabulous BBQ buffet dinner.

Wine and Cheese Sunset Cruise

Bid a fond farewell to the summer with this very special event at the Hamilton Harbourfront on Thursday, September 21 with hot and cold hors d'oeuvres, wine tasting and live entertainment. A very limited number of tickets are available; boarding begins at 6:30 p.m.

Young Alumni Events:

Toronto Trivia Night

Test your trivia skills against the University of Guelph's alumni on June 14 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Madison Avenue Pub.

Ballroom Bootcamp

Do you watch Dancing with the Stars and wish you could whisk across the room with style and grace? Wish no more. Now you can with an introductory lesson in ballroom dancing. McMaster's version of the hit television show will take place June 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Rose Hill Dance Studio, McMaster University.

Join experienced ballroom dance instructor, Sheri Gay, from Danceline Studios as she conducts a one and a half hour ballroom workshop (limited to 50 people). Everyone is welcome and no previous dance experience or partner is necessary.

Hamilton Trivia Night

The challenge continues. Test your trivia skills against the University of Guelph's alumni on July 12 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Kelsey's Restaurant on Main Street.

For more information, or to register online – check out www.mcmaster.ca/ua/alumni.